“The faculty in the department helped prepare me for a career by providing opportunities to explore different avenues in psychology.”
Lindsey’s interest in psychology began when she was just a child, and she remembers growing up asking questions about why people interact the way that they do.
Throughout her experience at Gustavus, Lindsey has been able to further explore these interests, especially by incorporating her second major, Philosophy, into her Psychological studies.
Within the Psychological Science Department, Lindsey has appreciated the diverse topics of study, and its commitment to making the department a welcoming place for students of all backgrounds. She also appreciates the collaborative nature of the department, in which the faculty can refer students to other professors who may be an expert in a particular field. She says, “In my experience, the faculty members are all willing to input their knowledge and expertise if you are interested!”
Lindsey feels lucky to have been able to engage in plenty of experiential learning during her time within the Gustavus Psychological Science Department. She has had the opportunity to work with Professors Marie Walker and Patrick Heath on research projects and present results at nationally recognized conferences. She is also in the process of writing her honors thesis under Dr. Heath’s supervision, in which she has been able to develop skills in the IRB process, cross-cultural research, and grant writing. She says, “I can confidently say my experiences equipped me with the skills needed for a PhD program in the future.”
Lindsey has also been engaged in an internship at the Saint Peter Regional Treatment Center, which has given her even more hands-on opportunities to further develop her skills. Due to these experiences and the endless support of the faculty within the Psychological Science Department, Lindsey feels that she has been able to explore various different fields of Psychology to discover what was right for her.
She says, “The curriculum of the major helped me get a well-rounded education in psychology as well, so I could pivot in the field and still have knowledge.”
Outside of her work within the Psychology Department, Lindsey is also involved on campus with the Gustavus Choir, Legacy A’Cappella, Gustie Greeters, and OLAS.